Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas Simple Recipe

Are you ready to make a delicious meal that’s easy and quick? My Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas Simple Recipe is perfect for any night of the week. With just a few simple ingredients like shredded chicken, cream cheese, and tortillas, you can whip up this tasty dish in no time. Follow along as I guide you step-by-step through this satisfying recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

– 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature

– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided

– 1 cup sour cream

– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce, divided

– 8 small flour tortillas

Seasonings

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon ground cumin

– ½ teaspoon chili powder

– Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish

– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

To make these Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas, you will first need the main ingredients. Shredded chicken gives you a great base. You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken. Cream cheese brings creaminess. The cheddar adds a nice cheesy flavor. Sour cream helps bind everything together. The enchilada sauce adds spice and moisture.

Next, you will want to mix in the seasonings. Garlic powder gives a rich taste. Ground cumin adds warmth. Chili powder brings a touch of heat. Adjust salt and pepper to your liking.

Finally, don’t forget the garnish! Fresh cilantro adds color and a burst of freshness. It makes the dish look and taste even better. You can find the full recipe above for step-by-step guidance on making these delicious enchiladas.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Oven and Dish

– Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).

– Prepare the Baking Dish: Spread about ¼ cup of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. This helps keep the enchiladas from sticking.

Making the Filling

– Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix together the cooked chicken, softened cream cheese, ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

– Mix Thoroughly: Stir until everything blends into a creamy filling. This part is key for great flavor.

Assembling the Enchiladas

– Fill & Roll Tortillas: Take a flour tortilla and place about ¼ cup of the chicken mixture in the center. Roll it up tightly and place it seam-side down in the baking dish.

– Arrange in Baking Dish: Repeat this process until all tortillas are filled and snugly fit in the dish.

Baking Process

– Add Remaining Sauce and Cheese: Pour the rest of the enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas. Make sure all are well covered. Then sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.

– Baking Time: Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Finishing Touches

– Cool and Slice: Once baked, take the dish out and let it cool for a few minutes. This makes it easier to slice.

– Garnish and Serve: Before serving, add fresh cilantro on top for a nice touch.

Follow these steps for a tasty meal! For full details, check out the Full Recipe.

Tips & Tricks

Choosing the Right Tortillas

– Flour vs. Corn Tortillas: Which to use?

I prefer flour tortillas for these enchiladas. They are soft and easy to roll. Corn tortillas are good too, but they can break. If you love corn, use them!

– How to warm tortillas for easier rolling

To warm tortillas, heat them in a pan for 10-15 seconds each side. You can also wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds. This makes them soft and easy to roll.

Enhancing Flavor

– Adding Spice: Optional ingredients for heat

If you like heat, add jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the filling. You can also use spicy enchilada sauce. This adds a nice kick!

– Using Different Cheeses: Variations for cheese lovers

Try mixing different cheeses for fun flavors. Pepper jack cheese adds spice. Mozzarella makes it super gooey. Experiment with what you love!

Making it Healthier

– Substitutions: Low-fat cream cheese or chicken alternatives

For a lighter dish, use low-fat cream cheese. You can also use shredded turkey for a leaner option. Both keep the creaminess but cut calories.

– Add Vegetables: Mix in spinach or peppers

Adding veggies boosts the nutrition. Spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini mix in well. You can sneak in extra greens without losing flavor.

For more cooking tips, check out my [Full Recipe].

Variations

Vegetarian Version

– Replace Chicken with Beans: You can use black beans or pinto beans. This makes a tasty, meatless option.

– Additional Veggies: Add zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. These veggies blend well with the creamy filling.

Spicy Enchiladas

– Adding Jalapeños: Slice fresh or pickled jalapeños into the filling. This adds a nice heat and flavor to your enchiladas.

– Spicy Enchilada Sauce: Use a spicy store-bought sauce or make your own. A homemade blend can include tomatoes, chili powder, and garlic for a kick.

Cheesy Enchiladas

– Extra Cheese Options: Try using pepper jack or mozzarella cheese. These cheeses melt beautifully and add depth to the dish.

– Cheese Sauce Topping: For an ultra-creamy touch, drizzle cheese sauce over the enchiladas before baking. This option is great for cheese lovers!

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your perfect enchiladas! You can explore more about these options in the Full Recipe.

Storage Info

Refrigeration

To store leftovers, place the enchiladas in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and tasty. You can also cover them tightly with plastic wrap. Store them in the fridge.

For the best taste, eat them within 3 to 4 days. The flavors will stay good, but the texture may change over time.

Freezing

If you want to keep the enchiladas longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap each enchilada in foil or plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible.

You can freeze them for up to 3 months. When you are ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge.

To reheat, you can bake them straight from frozen. Cover with foil and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes. If they are thawed, bake for 20 minutes until warm.

These methods help keep your Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas delicious and ready to eat!

FAQs

Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare these enchiladas in advance. Just follow these tips:

– Assemble the enchiladas but do not bake them yet.

– Cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap to keep them fresh.

– Store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

When you are ready, uncover and bake them as directed.

What can I serve with Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas?

To create a balanced meal, consider these sides:

– Mexican rice brings a nice texture.

– Refried beans add protein and fiber.

– Guacamole offers a creamy contrast.

– Corn salad gives freshness and color.

These options will make your meal fun and tasty.

Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?

Absolutely! You can use other proteins like:

– Ground turkey for a lighter option.

– Shredded beef for a hearty flavor.

– Black beans for a vegetarian choice.

These alternatives fit well in this easy recipe.

What if I don’t have enchilada sauce?

You can make your own enchilada sauce with simple ingredients. Here’s a quick recipe:

– 1 can of tomato sauce

– 1 tablespoon chili powder

– 1 teaspoon cumin

– Salt and pepper to taste

Mix these and simmer for about 10 minutes. You can also use salsa if you need a quick substitute.

Can I make these enchiladas gluten-free?

Yes! You can easily make these enchiladas gluten-free:

– Use corn tortillas instead of flour.

– Check your enchilada sauce for gluten. Many brands are gluten-free.

With these swaps, everyone can enjoy this dish.

This recipe for Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas offers tasty flavors with simple steps. We covered each ingredient, from the chicken to the spices, and how to assemble and bake the dish. I shared tips for storage, making it ahead of time, and even variations like vegetarian options.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself, these enchiladas are sure to please. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating a delicious meal everyone will love!

Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas

Indulge in these creamy chicken enchiladas that are sure to impress your family and friends! This easy recipe combines tender shredded chicken, creamy cheeses, and flavorful spices, all wrapped in soft tortillas and baked to perfection. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, these enchiladas are a crowd-pleaser. Click through to explore the full recipe and add this delicious dish to your meal rotation!

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Ingredients

  

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided

1 cup sour cream

1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce, divided

8 small flour tortillas

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

½ teaspoon chili powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Instructions

 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so that it’s ready for baking once you assemble the dish.

Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the softened cream cheese, half (½ cup) of the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, ground cumin, chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended into a creamy filling.

Prepare the Baking Dish: Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce—about ¼ cup—on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. This will help prevent the enchiladas from sticking and adds flavor.

Fill the Tortillas: Take one flour tortilla and place approximately ¼ cup of the chicken mixture in the center. Roll the tortilla tightly, ensuring the filling is snug, and place it seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas until all are filled and arranged in the dish.

Add Remaining Sauce: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas, making sure they are well covered for maximum flavor and moisture during baking.

Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of the enchiladas for a delightful cheesy crust.

Bake the Enchiladas: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully bubbly and golden brown on top.

Cool and Slice: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to slice and serve.

Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish the enchiladas with fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of color and freshness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4